Cornwall’s Digital Revolution: New Plan Ensures No One Left Behind
What’s changing in your neighbourhood?
If you’ve noticed technology playing a bigger role in everyday life—from booking appointments to accessing services—you’re not alone. Cornwall Council has recognised that digital access is now as fundamental as electricity or water, and they’re acting on it. The Cornwall Connected: Digital Inclusion Strategy represents a comprehensive commitment to ensure every resident across our county, from Newquay to the furthest villages, has genuine access to the digital world. This isn’t just about having an internet connection. The strategy recognises that many people in our communities still struggle with digital confidence, affordable devices, or simply knowing where to turn for help. Whether you live near Fistral Beach or in rural inland areas, the council wants to make sure geography or income doesn’t determine your digital opportunity. The new strategy builds on work already underway—you may have noticed digital champions working in your local library, community centre, or GP surgery. These are the faces of change in our towns and villages, helping neighbours navigate everything from email to online banking. By 2030, council leader Leigh Frost wants Cornwall to be a place where digital exclusion becomes history.
Who’s affected and how you can get involved
This strategy matters most to our most vulnerable residents—older people, those on limited incomes, families without devices, and anyone lacking confidence online. But here’s the good news: if you fall into these categories, support is coming to your doorstep. Local organisations across Cornwall, from community groups to businesses, are being brought into this effort. The council is coordinating with more than 100 organisations already employing digital champions. Local businesses that cater to visitors—think dog friendly accommodation around Newquay and other tourism hotspots—are also seeing opportunities to support digital inclusion. Tourism and planning cabinet member Sarah Preece emphasises that digital skills directly impact employment, healthcare access, and community wellbeing. If you’re struggling online, ask your GP surgery, library, or local community centre about digital support sessions. Better yet, if you’re digitally confident, consider volunteering as a champion in your neighbourhood. The council is actively recruiting people who can mentor others. Watch for upcoming initiatives in your area—from free device schemes to affordable broadband programmes. Your postcode shouldn’t determine your digital future.
What’s next: Taking action in your community
The strategy is ambitious, but action plans are being developed to translate promises into real change residents can see and use. Over the coming months, expect detailed announcements about specific programmes targeting different communities—families, pensioners, rural areas, and those facing multiple challenges. The Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Leadership Board is working alongside the council, meaning this isn’t just a top-down initiative. Your community’s voice matters. If you work in health, education, retail, or hospitality—whether that’s a seaside café in Newquay or a rural venture—you’ll likely be invited to contribute expertise. The council recognises that digital inclusion requires coordination across sectors. Stay alert for consultations about your area’s specific digital needs. Libraries and community centres will become hubs for support and skill-building. If you go to Newquay or anywhere else in Cornwall, you’ll eventually see these services expanding. By keeping the digital divide on the agenda until 2030, the council is signalling this is a long-term commitment requiring ongoing community involvement. Connect with local groups, ask questions, and demand accountability. This strategy only succeeds if we all participate.
Source: Strategy launched to tackle ‘digital divide’ in Cornwall by 2030
